Hard water, rust, sand, and other sediments don’t just clog your faucets—they shorten the lifespan of your appliances and reduce water quality. If you’re tired of dealing with murky water or costly plumbing repairs, the American Plumber WPD-11 t0 Whole House Sediment Filter Cartridge could be your home’s first line of defense. Designed for durability and high-capacity filtration, it’s a go-to choice for homeowners seeking clean, sediment-free water from every tap.
What Is the American Plumber WPD-110 Whole House Sediment Filter Cartridge?
The American Plumber WPD-110 is a high-performance, pleated polyester sediment filter cartridge designed to trap particles as small as 100 microns. It’s compatible with standard 10-inch filter housings and is commonly used as a pre-filter in whole-house water filtration systems. Unlike string-wound or spun polypropylene filters, the WPD-110 uses a pleated design that increases surface area, allowing it to hold more sediment before needing replacement—typically lasting 3–6 months, depending on water quality and usage.
This cartridge is not a carbon filter, so it doesn’t remove chlorine, chemicals, or odors. However, it excels at removing sand, silt, rust, and other particulate matter that can damage water heaters, washing machines, and dishwashers.
💡 Did You Know? According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), even municipally treated water can contain visible sediment—especially after pipe maintenance or heavy rainfall. A whole-house sediment filter like the WPD-110 acts as a safeguard.
Why Use a Whole-House Sediment Filter Like the WPD-110?
Many homeowners assume that if their tap water looks clear, it’s clean. But invisible sediment builds up over time. Here’s why installing a sediment filter matters:
- Protects Appliances: Sediment causes scale buildup in water heaters, reducing efficiency by up to 30% (U.S. Department of Energy).
- Extends Plumbing Life: Abrasive particles wear down valves and seals.
- Improves Water Clarity: Even if your water is safe to drink, sediment makes it look unappealing.
- Cost-Effective Maintenance: Replacing a $15 filter every few months is far cheaper than replacing a $1,200 water heater.
The WPD-110 stands out because of its high dirt-holding capacity—up to 3x more than standard string-wound filters—thanks to its pleated media design.
Key Features & Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | WPD-110 |
| Micron Rating | 100 microns |
| Material | Pleated polyester |
| Dimensions | 10″ length x 2.5″ diameter (standard size) |
| Flow Rate | Up to 15 GPM (gallons per minute) |
| Max Pressure | 75 PSI |
| Max Temperature | 125°F (52°C) |
| Replacement Interval | Every 3–6 months |
✅ Pro Tip: Always shut off your main water supply before replacing the cartridge. Use a filter wrench if the housing is tight—most DIYers complete the swap in under 10 minutes.
How to Install the American Plumber WPD-110 (Step-by-Step)
Installing the WPD-110 is straightforward—no plumbing license required. Here’s how:
- Turn Off Water Supply: Locate your main water shut-off valve and close it.
- Relieve Pressure: Open a faucet downstream to release pressure in the line.
- Unscrew Housing: Use a filter wrench to open the filter housing bowl.
- Remove Old Cartridge: Take out the used filter and discard it.
- Insert New WPD-110: Place the new cartridge into the housing—ensure it sits evenly.
- Lubricate O-Ring: Apply a thin layer of food-grade silicone grease to the O-ring.
- Reassemble & Flush: Screw the housing back on, turn water on slowly, and let it run for 2–3 minutes to flush air and loose fibers.
📌 Note: Always check for leaks after reassembly. A small drip can turn into major water damage.
For more on how sediment affects home systems, see the Wikipedia page on water filters.
WPD-110 vs. Other Sediment Filters: How Does It Compare?
Not all sediment filters are created equal. Here’s how the WPD-110 stacks up:
| Filter Type | Micron Rating | Capacity | Lifespan | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Plumber WPD-110 | 100µ | High (pleated) | 3–6 months | Whole-house pre-filtration |
| String-Wound | 5–100µ | Low | 1–3 months | Low-flow applications |
| Spun Polypropylene | 1–100µ | Medium | 2–4 months | General sediment removal |
| Melt-Blown | 1–50µ | Medium-High | 3–5 months | Moderate sediment loads |
Advantages of WPD-110:
- Higher dirt capacity = fewer changes
- Pleated design = better flow rate
- Reusable housing = eco-friendly
Limitations:
- Not for fine filtration (<100µ)
- Doesn’t remove chemicals or microbes
Common Signs You Need a Sediment Filter
You might not realize your water has sediment until it’s too late. Watch for these red flags:
- Cloudy or discolored water (especially after rain or construction)
- Reduced water pressure
- Premature wear on showerheads or faucet aerators
- Rust stains in sinks or bathtubs
- Strange noises from your water heater
If you’re on well water or live in an older neighborhood with aging pipes, a sediment filter isn’t optional—it’s essential.
FAQ Section
Q1: How often should I replace the American Plumber WPD-110 cartridge?
A: Every 3 to 6 months, depending on your water quality and household size. Homes with well water or high sediment levels may need monthly changes. A good rule: replace it when water flow noticeably slows.
Q2: Can the WPD-110 remove chlorine or bad tastes?
A: No. The WPD-110 only filters sediment. For chlorine, odors, or chemicals, pair it with a carbon block filter (like the American Plumber CFB-10) in a dual-stage system.
Q3: Is the WPD-110 compatible with my filter housing?
A: Yes—if your housing accepts standard 10-inch cartridges (also called “10-inch slim” or “10×2.5”). Most whole-house systems (e.g., Pentair, GE, iSpring) use this size.
Q4: Can I clean and reuse the WPD-110?
A: Not recommended. Pleated polyester isn’t designed for cleaning. Attempting to rinse it can damage the media and reduce effectiveness. Always replace with a new cartridge.
Q5: Does this filter work with well water?
A: Yes—it’s ideal for well water, which often contains sand, silt, and rust. However, for comprehensive well water treatment, combine it with iron filters, UV purifiers, or water softeners as needed.
Q6: What’s the difference between WPD-110 and WPS-110?
A: The WPD-110 is pleated (higher capacity), while the WPS-110 is string-wound (lower cost but shorter life). For whole-house use, the WPD-110 is the better long-term investment.
Conclusion
The American Plumber WPD-110 Whole House Sediment Filter Cartridge is a simple, affordable, and highly effective solution to protect your home’s plumbing and appliances from damaging sediment. With its high-capacity pleated design, standard sizing, and easy maintenance, it’s a smart upgrade for any household—especially those on well water or in areas with aging infrastructure.
Don’t wait for a clogged showerhead or a failed water heater to take action. Installing a WPD-110 today can save you hundreds in repairs and ensure cleaner water for years to come.
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Clean water starts at the filter—and with the WPD-110, you’re covered from the main line to your last faucet.
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